This is to advise mariners transiting the White River Entrance Channel (WREC) of increased head differentials between Norrell Lock and Dam and Montgomery Point Lock and Dam. At 11:00 am today, the tailwater elevation at Norrell Lock and Dam was 150.35 ft-msl and the headwater elevation at Montgomery Point Lock and Dam was 147.12 ft-msl with a differential of 3.23 feet. The WREC differential is forecasted to be 4 feet tomorrow and could possibly increase to 4.5 feet by Tuesday morning. The differentials are expected to remain above 3 feet for approximately 4 or 5 days. Mariners are reminded of advised tow restrictions during increased differentials:
WREC Differential # Barges
2.9 feet or less No restriction
3.0 to 4.4 feet 12 barge down bound restriction
No restriction up bound
4.5 to 5.0 feet 9 barge down bound restriction
No up bound restriction
5.1 to 5.9 feet 4 barge down bound restriction during daylight
2 barge down bound restriction during night
No up bound restriction
Mariners transiting the WREC should use extreme caution in this area, especially when passing Montgomery Point Lock and Dam. Contact Montgomery Point Lock and Dam or Norrell Lock and Dam for current differential and elevations or visit our website at http://www.swl.usace.army.mil/Missions/WaterLevels.aspx
Questions or requests for additional information concerning this notice should be directed to the Little Rock District Office at (501) 324-5739 or you may email CESWL-OP-OM@us.army.mil.
//signed//
Kevin J. McDaniels
Chief, Operations Division
Release no. 18-045